Telluride Ski Resort: A Huffington Post Travel Ski Resort Guide

Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. As part of a series on ski resorts, Huffington Post Travel offers our guide to Telluride Ski Resort, featuring all the key information snow lovers need to know before they hit the slopes.

The Basics

Telluride Ski Resort, located more than six hours southwest of Denver by car, is known for its charm, traffic-free streets and uncrowded slopes. However, nonstop service from nine U.S. cities to the Telluride and Montrose Regional Airports keeps the full-service resort accessible. The Rocky Mountains serve as the backdrop to this historic mining town, where world-class skiing meets quality restaurants and international boutiques that beckon families and celebrities alike. Many accommodations have direct access to the 2,000 acres of skiable terrain.

The Mountain

With picturesque views and quality terrain for all skill levels, skiers and snowboarders can glide along a 4.6-mile beginner run or soar down a dramatic 4,425-foot vertical drop. The mountain reaches 13,150 feet with 12,570 feet being the highest lift-served point, but experts can push their limits on hike-to-terrain trails. With an average snowfall of about 300 inches per year, Telluride Ski Resort doesn't need to put its snowmaking capabilities to use very often. Resort goers can often find powder snow during most of the season, which runs from late November through early April.

Trails And Lifts

With 125 trails and 18 lifts -- half of which are high speed, including seven quads and two gondolas -- the mountain at Telluride Ski Resort boasts 23 percent beginner trails, 36 percent intermediate and 41 percent expert-level runs. Additional lifts include one fixed quad, two triples, two doubles, two surface lifts and two Magic Carpets. Expert favorite, The Plunge, is loved for its bumpy ride, whereas See Forever, an intermediate run, is beloved for its 360-degree views. Beginners enjoy the high-altitude starting point and scenic views from Galloping Goose, the longest trail at Telluride at 4.6 miles. With three terrain parks, hike-to-terrain trails ranging from five minutes to one hour, helicopter drops and a NASTAR racing course, resort goers must budget their time, since the lifts often close by 4 p.m.

In The News

The picturesque town of Telluride and its lineup of local events such as the Telluride Film Festival draw celebrities like Oprah, Tom Cruise and Bob Dylan to the streets. Famous faces of another kind make appearances during the Snowboard World Cup. It's no wonder the resort town has been called "Most Charming" by Ski Magazine and one of the top ski resorts by many. Telluride has no stop lights or chain restaurants and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places -- it's where Butch Cassidy began his career as a bank robber.

Cost

One-day lift tickets run about $98 for adults and about $55 for children, but discounts can be found by purchasing multiday tickets online in advance, ordering with a group of 20 or more or finding a lodging and lift ticket package. Equipment rental, which includes quality brands such as Rossignol, Burton and Salomon, costs about $40 to $60 per day. Helmets are rented for an additional cost. Telluride Ski Resort visitors can save money by making a reservation online in advance. Ski and snowboard lessons range from $85 for an adult group morning ski clinic to $1,200 for a 10-day children's lesson.

Apres-Ski

Often ranked as one of the top ski resorts for its apres-ski scene and nightlife, Telluride Ski Resort offers a range of on-mountain dining options, from casual to fine dining, all with spectacular views. The nightlife in Telluride includes historic saloons, modern bars and a thriving arts and theater community. Nearby Mountain Village offers pedestrian-friendly plazas with unique shops and international flair. Visitors looking to unwind after a busy day on the slopes can indulge in one of the many spas and salons.

WATCH: Telluride Ski Resort

Take a look at some of the best skiers and snowboarders at Telluride Ski Resort.